There's a buzz in the world of Latin jazz and soul music; a whispering of a name. The word on the street is that James Zavaleta has stepped out of the shadows and is set to become a major star with his self-titled debut EP. Suite101 journalist, Jessica Biggs, caught up with Zavaleta to discuss this latest development.
Zavaleta's Professional Journey
The multi-talented 25 year old has come a long way since he first picked up a pair of drumsticks at a tender age. "My musical journey started when I was 3 years old," Zavaleta recalls. "Music was, and has always been, very comforting to me."
As an 8 year old, Zavaleta fell in love with salsa, which led to him learning to play Latin percussion instruments, like the timbales, guiro, bongos and maracas.
By 13, he was singing; he began his professional music journey at just 15 and, finally, he mastered piano playing at the age of 17!
"Some would say that was a bit late to start on the piano...but I believe that my love for it was so strong that I learned quickly and was able to develop the skills I needed," says Zavaleta.
He has played percussion and sung backing vocals for a wealth of respected Latin artists, including the Latin Grammy Award winners, Victor Manuelle and Albita, and nominee, Eddie Santiago. He was also a part of Orestes Vilato 2009 Grammy-nominated album, It's About Time.
That was "a major highlight in my musical career!" Zavaleta exclaims. With experience like that, it's no wonder that he finally feels ready to step forward into the spotlight and showcase his many talents to the world.
The EP
Zavaleta, the singer, songwriter, composer and producer, has drawn upon his Latin culture and love of salsa to produce an EP of soulful music and lyrics. With the piano taking centre stage, accompanied by a variety of percussion instruments, James brings you an EP with a sexually charged sound and feel-good sultry vibe. Even if you don't speak a word of Spanish, it's hard not to get intoxicated by the melody and taken in by James's powerful vocals as he delivers each song with passion and conviction.
There isn't one song that stands out above all the rest on the EP - each carry their own weight.
My personal favourites however, would have to be, 'Tu Labertino' (You're a Labyrinth) for its great piano intro and old-skool, smoky jazz club feel and also 'Mentirosa' (Liar) for its catchy hook and sheer danceability.
Look out also for 'Ya No Se' - reminiscent of Donny Hathaway's 'Giving up' - and, if you're a fan of Kenny G, you'll love 'Cuando Despiertes', while 'Vivir Sin Ti' a Latin Fusion track is a hit in the making. The music video is to be released in early 2012.
Highly Recommended
If you're looking for an EP to add to your collection that has elements of jazz, Latin fusion and soul, then the James Zavaleta EP is a must and can be downloaded from iTunes
For regular updates on where you can find him playing live visit his twitter page @jameszavaleta or www.jameszavaleta.com
Jessica Biggs - I've always had a passion for writing and have many interests. My other passions are music, food, travel and alternative medicine.
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